The best road cycling routes around Highlands Ranch

The South Deer Creek Canyon Road, Conifer, & Pleasant Park Road loop offers a classic Denver-area road cycling challenge, winding through rugged terrain and dense forests. You'll experience significant elevation changes, with sustained climbs that lead to rewarding distant views of the Rocky Mountains and local horse properties. The route, often referred to in parts as "Hi Grade Road," is a difficult 52.9-mile (85.2 km) ride with 4512 feet (1375 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 4 hours and 25 minutes.

Planning your visit is straightforward, though specific trailhead parking isn't detailed, so consider an early start. This route is especially popular in the spring, as cyclists seek to build fitness on its challenging climbs. A highlight for many is the Pleasant Park Grange Rest Stop, a well-known spot where you might find refreshments available for donations.

This loop is notable as the southernmost access point for road riding into the mountains from the Denver metropolitan area, making it a significant route for advanced cycling challenges in Conifer, Colorado. It's a demanding test of endurance and climbing ability, attracting cyclists who appreciate its rural setting and natural beauty.

The Chatfield Reservoir and High Line Canal Loop offers a dynamic cycling experience, blending the open views of Chatfield Reservoir with the shaded, historic High Line Canal Trail. You'll pedal through diverse scenery, from grassy plains and wetlands to woodlands, often catching glimpses of the Front Range peaks. The trail's mixed surfaces, including paved sections, groomed gravel, and some dirt paths, make it a varied ride, especially enjoyable in spring when flowering trees and active birds enhance the journey.

Planning your ride requires a bit of foresight, particularly if you're on a road bike. The one-mile stretch across the Chatfield Dam is unpaved with rough, sharp gravel, which might necessitate a detour for some tires. However, arriving at Chatfield State Park by bicycle means you won't pay an entrance fee, a nice bonus. This moderate 33.2-mile (53.4 km) loop, with 1422 feet (433 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 33 minutes, so plan accordingly for daylight and hydration.

This route incorporates a significant portion of the High Line Canal Trail, a historic National Landmark Trail originally built in 1883 for irrigation. At 71 miles long, it's one of the longest continuous urban trails in the United States, connecting to other major systems like the C-470 Trail. Beyond the cycling, keep an eye out for abundant wildlife, including waterfowl, fox, deer, and even bighorn sheep, adding another layer of enjoyment to this unique Denver-area ride.

The Wildcat Point via Monarch Boulevard & Buffalo Trail offers a delightful road cycling experience through Daniels Park, combining smooth asphalt with some compacted gravel sections. You'll pedal through natural beauty, enjoying the changing scenery as you make your way to the Wildcat Point Overlook, which provides expansive views, including a clear sightline to Denver. This route is an easy 13.8-mile (22.3 km) journey with 895 feet (273 metres) of elevation gain, making it accessible for most cyclists.

Planning your ride on this trail is straightforward. The route is well-suited for road cycling and doesn't require any special permits or fees. While much of the path is paved, be prepared for about 1.7 miles (2.76 km) of compacted gravel, which adds a unique element to the ride. It's a great option for a morning or afternoon outing, typically taking around 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete.

This trail stands out for its combination of dedicated bike lanes and scenic overlooks, offering a diverse experience for road cyclists. Its relatively easy difficulty and well-maintained sections, coupled with the panoramic views from Wildcat Point, make it a popular choice in Daniels Park. The presence of mixed terrain, including the compacted gravel, provides a slightly varied challenge for those looking beyond purely paved paths.

If you're looking for a road cycling route that offers a bit of everything, the C-470 and Cherry Creek Trail Loop is a solid choice. This moderate 40.5-mile (65.2 km) ride, with 1939 feet (591 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes. You'll transition from the open views of the Colorado foothills along the C-470 Trail to the more natural, riparian settings of the Cherry Creek Trail, passing by the Cherry Creek Reservoir and through areas with cottonwoods and grasslands.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as both trails offer numerous access points. The C-470 Trail is a popular commuter route, and recent safety improvements like underpasses make for a smoother experience. While the route is mostly paved, be aware that some concrete sections can be a bit bumpy. This loop is best for cyclists with a good fitness level who are comfortable with longer distances and some moderate climbs.

This combined loop is a significant regional multi-use path, connecting to many other trails across the Denver Metro Area, offering extensive cycling possibilities. The C-470 Trail provides panoramic Front Range vistas, while the Cherry Creek Trail offers a blend of urban parks and natural scenery within Cherry Creek State Park. It's a fantastic way to explore diverse landscapes without venturing too far from the city.